Ramadhan 1430 DateDrive

السلام عليكم و رحمة الله و بركاته

Alhamdulillah, so far Ramadan DateDrive has raised over $12,000.

These donations helped AlMaun to fulfill almost all their requests.

If you still want to earn more rewards, here are some suggestions.

Living outside the US?

Match #1: Dollar to dollar matching up to $100 for any donations from outside the US
Read more: http://halfdate.com/currentdrive/#ixzz0Qmusu2NJ

Anywhere in the world?

Women shelter still needs $600 for rent click here


These opportunities goes away fast, so show Allah that you care.

May Allah reward you with the sweetest date in Jannah

P.S. How are you going to show to Allah that you care?


Venice Beach, Venice, California 90291, United States

The Benefits of Fasting

السلام عليكم و رحمة الله و بركاته

The Benefits of Fasting

The original meaning sawm is to be at rest. We give rest to the gastro-intestinal tract, the sexual organs, the tongue, the eyes and ears, etc. The transit time for a bolus of food from the mouth to the end of the large intestine, called colon, is about 14 hours. This is the period - of 14 hours - during which we fast and withhold any stimulus, reaching the stomach and the digestive system.

In fact, fasting is an additional safety device for the regenerative processes of the body. The repair processes of the body and the brain, including the memory molecules take place when the body is at rest, especially during the stage of deep sleep. Sleeping during Ramadan is much deeper than in other times. Two hours of sleep during Ramadan are more satisfying and refreshing than more hours of sleep otherwise.

Fasting significantly increases deep sleep and reduces the dreaming time, which takes place during the Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep. Therefore, it is more beneficial for the elderly to fast because their normal hours of deep sleep in the non-fasted state are much less.

Fasting is a divine prescription, because Allah Himself prescribed it in the Qur’an. Because the Islamic fast does not exceed 14 hours or so, the normal steady state of the body is maintained as a result of coordinated physiological mechanisms. Hence, nearly all the biochemical results in the laboratory are normal.

During fasting, serum magnesium is increased and…
Magnesium has cardio-protective effects and it is being used in prevention and treatment of heart attacks.
It has anti-platelet properties and prevents extension of the clot.
It is a membrane stabilizer acting on the sodium/potassium/ calcium flux at the membrane level. Hence, it prevents cardiac and cerebral dysrhythmias.
Fasting, through the beneficial effects of magnesium, prevents the formation of atheroma as well as dissolves atheromatous plaques which are responsible for heart attacks and strokes. Hence, fasting takes an active part in the rejuvenating processes of the body through many channels.
It increases the fibrinolytic activity of the blood, which leads to prevention and also dissolution of any recent clot.

Ramadan puts a healthy mind into a healthy body. During fasting, there is increased secretion of the growth hormone by the pituitary gland.. It is an anabolic hormone for synthesis of proteins and collagen, which produces a positive nitrogen balance. It also stimulates erythropoiesis, as well as collagen synthesis.

During the exercise of fasting, prayers and different spiritual experiences of Ramadan, certain endogenous substances are released by the brain and spinal cord into the body called opioids, which include enkephalins and endorphins. These are responsible for euphoria, tranquility and serenity during such periods.

Endorphins and enkephalins are natural painkillers. Endorphins may be responsible for the "feel nice" effects, experienced by many people after rigorous exercise. Endorphins and enkephalins are derived from beta-lipotropin. On release, it is cleaved to form three major active products: called met-enkephalin, gamma-endorphin, and beta-endorphin.

Beta-endorphin is most active, and is about 20 times as potent as morphine. In addition to their painkilling properties, the narcotic analgesics cause a profound feeling of well-being (euphoria). It is this feeling that is in part responsible for the psychological drive of certain persons who are fasting. Other mechanisms reduce pain sensation by blocking the transmission of pain message to the brain.

To alter the pain sensation, the brain and spinal cord release specialized neurotransmitters called endorphins and enkephalins. These chemicals interfere with pain impulse transmission by occupying the nerve cell receptors, required to send the impulse across the synapse. By making the pain impulse travel less efficiently, endorphins and enkephalins can significantly lessen the perception of pain. In extreme circumstances, they can even make severe injuries nearly painless.

If an athlete is injured during the height of competition, or a soldier injured during a fight, or persons who are fasting, they may not realize they have been hurt, until after the stressful situation has ended! This happens because the brain produces abnormally high levels of endorphins or enkephalins, in periods of intense stress, excitement or fasting.

Moon Sighting Update

السلام عليكم و رحمة الله و بركاته

Moon Sighting Update

SHA'BAAN 1430 A.H.
First Night: Night of Thursday 23rd July, 2009
First Day: Day of Friday 24th July, 2009

RAJAB 1430 (AH) - Last Month

The Month of Rajab completed 30 days since the moon to commence the month of Sha'baan was not confirmed as being sighted after the sunset of the 29th day.


RAMADAAN 1430 (AH) - Next Month

The 29th of Sha'baan is Friday 21st August, 2009.
Sighting should be done after sunset of this day.

The new moon (crescent) will be born on Thursday 20th August, 2009 at 6:02 am. Sunset on Friday 21st August, 2009 will be at 6:25 pm. At sunset of this day, the moon will be about 36 hours 23 minutes old and Muslims are reminded to look for the crescent to commence the month of Ramadaan 1430 AH.

If the moon is sighted then the 1st Taraaweeh would be performed on the night of Friday 21st August, 2009 and the 1st Fast would be on Saturday 22nd August, 2009.

If the moon is not sighted then Sha’baan would complete 30 days and the 1st Taraaweeh will be on the night of Saturday 22nd August, 2009 and the 1st Fast would be on Sunday 23rd August, 2009.

Enquiries of Sighting can be made at:
Darul Uloom Trinidad and Tobago
868-665-8868 / 868-665-1442

Before Ramadhan

السلام عليكم و رحمة الله و بركاته

Peace & Blessing be upon Prophet Muhammad, His Family and Companions.
_________________________________

One of the distinguishing features of Ramadan is forgiveness!!!

It's a wonderful time to open our hearts and cleans them of grudges and bitterness by forgiving others.

"The weak can never forgive. Forgiveness is the attribute of the strong"
Forgive me am not angel!!

Send this msg to all ur friends before ramadan so that u start this holy month with pure hearts!!!

Ramadhaan Part 5

السلام عليكم و رحمة الله و بركاته

Things that are to be avoided while Fasting

• It is not permissible for a fasting person to lie, give false witness or statements, backbite, slander or do immoral, indecent or shameful acts.
• It is not permissible for the fasting person to be unjust to anyone, to entertain hatred, malice and enmity against anyone, cast lustful gazes, meet strange women or go to cinema etc. These acts do not invalidate or break the fast, however they are totally disliked and decrease the blessings and rewards of the fast.
• It is also disliked to apply Surma to the eyes while fasting. Similarly it is disliked to do cupping or donating blood while fasting since this may lead to weakness.
• It is Makruuh (disliked) to be excessive in pouring water down the nostrils or gargling while observing the fast.
• While observing the fast it is Makruuh (disliked) to touch or kiss one’s wife with excitement or lust.
• It is Makruuh (disliked) to chew or taste anything while fasting.

Laws relating to 'Itikaaf

‘Itikaaf literally means seclusion and in Islaam it means to seclude oneself to the Masjid in worship in order to achieve the pleasure of Allah (with the clear intention of ‘Itikaaf). ‘Itikaaf in the month of Ramadhan is an emphasized and strong practice of the Prophet (S.A.), who continuously performed ‘Itikaaf of the last ten days of Ramadhan from the year he entered Madinah until he left this world. As such, spending the last ten days of Ramadhan in ‘Itikaaf is a strong and emphasized Sunnah of the Prophet (S.A.)

The last ten days of ‘Itikaaf begins before the sunset of the 20th day of fasting. In other words it begins before the 21st night of Ramadhan and continues until the moon of Shawwaal is sighted. It is therefore necessary for those performing ‘Itikaaf that they should be in the masjid before the sunset of the 20th day of fasting.

Lailatul Qadr - The Night of Power

“We have indeed revealed this (message) on the Night of Power And what will explain to you what is the Night of Power? The Night of Power is better than a thousand months. Therein comes down the Angels and the Spirit by Allah’s permission on every errand.” (Quraan, Chapter 97).

Abu Hurairah (R.A.) reports that the Messenger of Allah (S.A.) said, “Whoever stands in prayer and worship on the Night of Power, with complete faith and with sincere hope of gaining reward, all his previous sins are forgiven.” (At-Targhiib from Bukharii and Muslim)

The night (being so great) should be spent diligently in devotion, recitation of the Quraan and supplication. As stated in the above-mentioned Hadith, Allah grants forgiveness of all the previous sins of a person who spends the night in prayer. In another tradition reported by Anas (R.A.) he says, “Once when Ramadhan commenced the Messenger of Allah (S.A.) said, “A month has verily dawned over you wherein lies a night better than a thousand months. Whoever misses such a night has indeed been deprived of all that is good and none is deprived of it, except he who is really unfortunate.” (Ibn Maajah).

Taraawiih

Taraawiih is Sunnah of the Prophet (S.A.) and a highly recommended act of ‘Ibaadah in the month of Ramadhan. It is the Ijmaa’ (consensus) of the Sahaabahs (R.A.) that it consists of twenty Rakaahs.

The time of Taraawiih Salaah begins after ‘Ishaa Salaah. If it is performed before then it is not valid. Taraawiih can be performed before or after the Witr Salaah.

Taking a short break every four Rakaahs of Taraawiih is permissible. During this time it is permissible to be engaged in any form of Tasbiih, Dhikr, or Daruud silently. Even to remain silent is permissible. However it is not proper to make anything binding upon oneself or the Jamaa’ah to be read or recited during this pause.

adapted from message by "♥ HIJAAB-My Right, My Choice, My Life! Hijaab is Freedom- not oppression♥ " group

Ramadhaan Part 4

السلام عليكم و رحمة الله و بركاته

Sunnah Acts of Fasting
• It is Sunnah to take Sihri (small meal) in the morning before observing the fast. The Prophet (S.A.) himself said, “Take Sihri for certainly there are blessings in having Sihri”.
• It is more virtuous to delay the Sihri from being very early in the morning. However it is Makruuh (disliked) to delay it to the time when it becomes doubtful of the ending time of Sihri ( i.e. break of dawn).
• It is Sunnah to break the fast immediately after sunset without delay and it is Mustahab (desirable) to recite the Du’aa for breaking the fast. However a person should not be so hasty in breaking his fast so as to do it before the sun has set.

Things which nullify the Fast
• It is not permissible to eat, drink or have sexual relations with one’s spouse while one is observing the fast. Similarly talking oral medication or using nasal sprays and other specific medicines by Asthma patients will all invalidate the fast.
• While performing Ghusl or Wuduu if water mistakenly goes down the throat while being conscious and aware that one is fasting, then the fast is nullified and has to be made up afterwards.
• If medicine is placed in the ear or nose while fasting then the fast is nullified and must be made up afterwards.
• If medication is placed on a wound on the head or stomach and it enters into the head or stomach then the fast is broken and must be made up afterwards.
• If after eating something forgetfully, a person thought that his fast was broken and thereafter ate something intentionally, his fast is nullified and must be made up afterwards.

Things which do not nullify the Fast
• Unconsciousness or illness does not break the fast. However it is permissible to break the fast for medical reasons such as illness etc. In such a case Qadaa is necessary.
• It is Makruuh (disliked) to use toothpaste while fasting since there is a high possibility of the effects entering the throat. If it enters the throat then the fast is broken and Qadaa is necessary.
• By using a Miswak the fast is not broken.
• If while taking a bath water enters the ear then the fast is not broken.
• If saliva enters the throat and is swallowed then the fast is not broken.
• Taking medication by injection does not break the fast.
• The sweet scent of Lobhan, incense, ‘Itr or perfume does not break the fast. However if the smoke of the Lobhan or incense enters the throat by his action then the fast will be broken and Qadaa is necessary.
• The emission of blood or pus from a wound or pimple does not break the fast even if it is a large amount. It is however disliked to cause the emission of blood in a fasting person.

adapted from message by "♥ HIJAAB-My Right, My Choice, My Life! Hijaab is Freedom- not oppression♥ " group

Ramadhaan Part 3

السلام عليكم و رحمة الله و بركاته

Virtues of Fasting (Saum)

Fasting is a great act of ‘Ibaadah in Islaam which is not done for any physical or medical reason but solely for the pleasure of Allah. The only purpose for which it should be done is the spiritual development and rewards promised by Allah. If it is done for any other reason then this intention will lack ‘Ikhlaas or sincerity.

In a tradition reported by Abu Hurairah (R.A.) the Messenger of Allah (S.A.) said, “Every action of a man increases in its rewards ten times until seven hundred, but Allah says, except fasting, for it is done for Me and I will give its reward as I desire.” (Muslim).

The Law of Fasting in Ramadhaan

Fasting literally means ‘ to abstain’ and in Islaam it means to abstain from food, drink, sexual relations with one’s wife/husband and all other things which can break the fast, from the break of dawn until sunset with the intention of an act of worship. It is therefore essential that the intention of observing the fast be made by the individual.

Observing the fast of Ramadhan is compulsory on an individual basis and is evident from the Holy Quraan which states, ‘The month of Ramadhan is the month in which the Holy Quraan was sent down, a guidance for mankind and clear signs of guidance and a criterion. So whosoever among you is present in this month, let him observe the fast’. (2:183). The Prophet of Allah (S.A.) said, “Islaam is founded on five pillars- To bear testimony that there is no god but Allah and Muhammad is His Messenger, to establish Salaah, to pay Zakaah, to fast in Ramadhan and Pilgrimage to the house of Allah”. (Bukhaarii, Muslim).

Intention of Fasting

Intention of observing the fast is essential upon an individual since it is through this, the fast becomes an act of worship. Once this intention has been made in the heart it is enough, however it is a good act to say it with the tongue also. The intention for observing the fast should be made from the night (i.e. any time preceding the break of dawn of that specific day).

The Intention for observing the fast can be made in the following words:
Nawaitu an a suuma ghadan lil-laahi Ta’aala.
I intend to fast tomorrow for the sake of Allah.
The Dua that can be recited at the time of breaking the fast is:
Allahumma laka sumtu wa bika aamantu wa alaika tawakkaltu wa alaa rezqika aftartu.
O Allah for your sake have I fasted and have believed in you and upon you do I put my trust and with Your Sustenance do I break my fast.

adapted from message by "♥ HIJAAB-My Right, My Choice, My Life! Hijaab is Freedom- not oppression♥ " group

Ramadhaan Part 2

السلام عليكم و رحمة الله و بركاته

Virtues of Ramadhaan
Salmaan (R.A.) states that the Messenger of Allah (S.A.) addressed them on the last day of Sha’baan saying: “O people, there comes upon you now a month in which lies a night better than one thousand months. It is a month in which Allah has made compulsory that fasting should be observed by day and has made the ‘standing by night’ a practice. In this month, whosoever draws closer to Allah by any good action, for him shall be such reward as if he had performed a compulsory act at any other time of the year. It is indeed a month of patience and the reward for patience is Paradise.

It is a month of sympathy with one’s fellowmen. It is the month wherein a true believer’s sustenance is increased. Whosoever feeds a fasting person in order to break his fast (at sunset), for him there shall be forgiveness of his sins and emancipation from the fire of Hell, and for him shall be the same rewards as for him (whom he fed) without that person’s reward being diminished in the least. Upon this we said ‘O Messenger of Allah (S.A.), not all of us possess the means whereby we can provide enough for a fasting person to break his fast’. The Messenger of Allah (S.A.) replied, ‘Allah grants the same reward to him who gives a fasting person a single date, or a drink of water or a sip of milk to break his fast. This month the first part of which brings the mercy of Allah, the middle brings His forgiveness and the last part brings emancipation from the fire of Hell.
Whosoever lessens the burden of his servants (bondsmen) in this month, Allah will forgive him and free him from the fire of Hell.

In this blessed month, there are four things you should endeavour to perform in great number, two of which shall be to please your Lord, while the other two shall be those without which you cannot do. Those which shall please your Lord are that you should in great quantity recite the Kalimah ‘Laa ilaaha il-lal-laah’ and make much ‘ Istighfaar’ (seeking Allah’s forgiveness). As for those which you cannot do without, you should beg Allah for entry into Paradise and seek refuge in Him from the fire of Hell.

And whosoever gave a person who fasted water to drink, Allah shall grant him a drink from my fountain such a drink whereafter he shall never feel thirsty until he enters Paradise.” (Reported from Ibn Khuzaimah in his Sahiih and Baihaqii).

adapted from message by "♥ HIJAAB-My Right, My Choice, My Life! Hijaab is Freedom- not oppression♥ " group

Moon Sighting Update

السلام عليكم و رحمة الله و بركاته

SHA'BAAN 1430 A.H.
First Night: Night of Thursday 23rd July, 2009
First Day: Day of Friday 24th July, 2009

RAJAB 1430 (AH) - Last Month

The Month of Rajab completed 30 days since the moon to commence the month of Sha'baan was not confirmed as being sighted after the sunset of the 29th day.


RAMADAAN 1430 (AH) - Next Month

The 29th of Sha'baan is Friday 21st August, 2009.
Sighting should be done after sunset of this day.

The new moon (crescent) will be born on Thursday 20th August, 2009 at 6:02 am. Sunset on Friday 21st August, 2009 will be at 6:25 pm. At sunset of this day, the moon will be about 36 hours 23 minutes old and Muslims are reminded to look for the crescent to commence the month of Ramadaan 1430 AH.

If the moon is sighted then the 1st Taraaweeh would be performed on the night of Friday 21st August, 2009 and the 1st Fast would be on Saturday 22nd August, 2009.

If the moon is not sighted then Sha’baan would complete 30 days and the 1st Taraaweeh will be on the night of Saturday 22nd August, 2009 and the 1st Fast would be on Sunday 23rd August, 2009.

Introduction To Ramadhan

السلام عليكم و رحمة الله و بركاته

Ramadhan is indeed a very blessed month, which is filled with great blessings and favors. It is a month in which the mercy and forgiveness of Allah descends immensely to His servants. The blessed traditions of the Prophet (S.A.) inform us that in this month the doors of Hell are closed and the Satans are chained, while the doors of Paradise remain open.

It is certainly a month in which a believer has the opportunity to increase in good deeds and gain rich rewards. It is a month which teaches patience and forbearance, self-restraint and piety. A believer is taught to be charitable, kind and sympathetic to others. By observing the sacred month of Ramadhan, the believer is able to curb his bad habits, which will be of everlasting benefit to him and most of all it helps in the purification of his soul.

We must also understand that Ramadhan is a very special month given to us by our Creator, Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’aala. We should appreciate this favor from Allah and endeavor to observe the month of Ramadhan with due respect, patience, worship and supplication to Him. Very often, because of the lack of knowledge of how Ramadhan should be observed, the blessed month comes to a completion without much being gained from it. It is therefore extremely important to know what is required of us in this Holy month of Ramadhan, so that it shall truly be a month of great blessings, rewards and a means of achieving piety and closeness to Allah.

adapted from message by "♥ HIJAAB-My Right, My Choice, My Life! Hijaab is Freedom- not oppression♥ " group

Does Ramadhan End With Eid al-Fitr?

Most assuredly you would get a "yes" answer from every Muslim you ask as to whether Ramadhan ends with 'Eid Al-Fitr. Concerning the injunctions for abstaining from food, drink and sexual contact with our spouses during the daytime, these could be easily ascertained from the Quran and the Ahadith. However,when we investigate some of the reasons that make the Ramadhan such a great blessing, we will see that its lessons should be with us every day of the year.

First of all, the fact that we spend from dawn to sunset denying ourselves the normal needs and pleasures of this world builds within us fortitude and self-discipline. This will enable us to develop the most prized virtue of patience (if Allaah wills). Allah (swt) tells us:

{O you who believe! Seek help with patient perseverance and prayer:
For Allaah is with those who patiently persevere} [Baqarah 2:153]

By keeping in mind that we are complying with the commandments of Allah (swt) we will remind ourselves of our purpose in seeking Allah's Pleasure. Ramadhan helps to reinforce our need to be constantly conscious of obeying Allah (swt) and be mindful of the fact that His guidance is the greatest mercy. Allah (swt) tells us:

{O mankind! There has come to you a direction from your Lord and a healing
for the disease in your hearts, and a guidance and a mercy for those who believe.
Say: In the Bounty of Allah and in His Mercy:
In that let them rejoice. that is better than (the wealth) they hoard}
[Yunus 10:57-58]

Through Ramadhan we not only realize that obeying Allah (swt) is the greatest joy, but we live and experience this obedience in a more acute sense as we restrain our desires during the course of the days of this blessed month. Obeying Allah (swt) with love and humility, which is the essence of worship, become the focal point of our lives. For that reason when asked about the end of Ramadhan, we can see that its spirit never really ends as this should be our attitude relative to worship of Allah (swt) throughout the year. We realize that it is just one more stepping stone, a large one indeed, on the path of Islam, which is instituted to assist us to achieve our purpose here in this life. Thus does Ramadhan by nurturing the virtues of patience, focusing our vision on the Guidance and the Mercy of Allah (swt) and fine-tuning our will to obey Him, instill in us the quality of character needed to truly strive in the Cause of Allah (swt). This striving in the Cause of Allah (swt), or Jihad, encompasses every aspect of our lives and is the highest achievement in a Muslim's life. Allah (swt) informs us:

{Those who believe, suffer exile and wage jihaad in Allah's cause
with their goods and their souls, have the highest ranks in the sight of Allah.
They are the people who will achieve (salvation).} [Tawbah 9:20]

The elevated purpose of striving in the Cause of Allah (swt) must reflect the lessons taught in Ramadhan. We need patience and temperance; we need to know the Guidance and the Commands of Allah (swt) as preached and practiced by the Messenger of Allah (Salallahu Alaihi Sallam); and we need to obey Allah (swt) and His Messenger (Salallahu Alaihi Sallam) truly and faithfully regardless of the excesses to which our own desires may be prompting us. Therefore, when Ramadhan has come to an end, let us not lose this great blessing by thinking that it is over, and falling back in our more lackadaisical ways. Let us, insha'allah, take hold of this Divine Mercy and Guidance, shape our lives around it, and become the type of human beings worthy of being called Muslims!

Ameen!

The Fasting of Ramadan: A Time for Thought, Action,and Change - By: Taha Ghayyur & Taha Ghaznavi

"Fasting in Ramadan develops in a person the real spirit of social belonging, of unity and brotherhood, and of equality before God. This spirit is the natural product of the fact that when people fast they feel that they are joining the whole Muslim society (which makes up more than one fifth of world's population) in observing the same duty, in the same manner, at the same time, for the same motives, and for the same end. No sociologist or historian can say that there has been at any period of history anything comparable to this powerful institution of Islam: Fasting in the month of Ramadan. People have been crying throughout the ages for acceptable 'belonging', for unity, for brotherhood, for equality, but how echoless their voices have been, and how very little success they have met..." says Hammudah Abdalati, in Islam in Focus.

"What is fasting?" "How does the fasting of Muslims in Ramadan differ from the fasting of other faiths?" "Why should one 'torture' one's body in the first place?" "What do you really gain from fasting in the end?"...These are a few questions that a number of non-Muslim friends and colleagues often ask us, usually out of fascination with this spiritually- uplifting practice of Islamic faith, and at times out of pity and sympathy for us, thinking, why should anyone suffer from hunger and thirst like Muslims? I wouldn't be surprised if many of us shared the same negative perception of Fasting.

12 Reasons To Fast!

1. Fasting is an institution for the improvement of moral and spiritual character of human being. The purpose of the fast is to help develop self-restraint, self-purification, God-consciousness, compassion, the spirit of caring and sharing, the love of humanity and the love of God. Fasting is a universal custom and is advocated by all the religions of the world, with more restrictions in some than in others. The Islamic Fast, as opposed to mere starvation or self-denial, is an act of worship and obedience to God, thanksgiving,
forgiveness, spiritual training, and self-examination.

2. Ramadan gives us a break and provides us with a rare opportunity to think about our own selves, our future, and our families. It is a time to give our selves a mental break and to temporarily forget about the hundreds of worries and stresses we are constantly
bombarded with. In hectic times, such as ours, and in places like the West, this valuable time to think about our lives, on individual basis, is a luxury and is desperately needed! It is a unique month of self-analysis, and of taking stock of one's moral and spiritual 'assets and liabilities' .

3. Fasting indoctrinates us in patience, unselfishness, and gratitude. When we fast we feel the pains of deprivation and hunger, and learn how to endure it patiently. The meaning of this powerful experience in a social and humanitarian context is that we are much
quicker than anybody else in sympathizing with the oppressed and needy around the world, and responding to their needs. "It is the month to visit the poor, the sick, and the needy to share their sorrows. It is the month where the food, sustenance and the earnings
of a believing Muslim increases and they are blessed," says the Final Prophet of God, Muhammad (peace be upon him), a man who was known for his noble humanitarian causes, for social justice, and for being the first to respond to other's needs, despite the fact that he himself lived a very simple and humble life. It is only during such a trying time as Ramadan that we can reflect on the condition of those in this world who may not be as fortunate as us.

4. Fasting in Ramadan enables us to master the art of mature adaptability and Time-Management. We can easily understand this point when we realize that fasting makes people change the entire course of their daily life. When they make the change, they naturally adapt themselves to a new system and schedule, and move along to satisfy
the rules. This, in the long run, develops in them a wise sense of adaptability and self-created power to overcome the unpredictable hardships of life! A person who values constructive adaptability, time-management, and courage will appreciate the effects of Fasting in this respect as well.

5. It cultivates in us the principle of sincere Love, because when we observe Fasting, we do it out of deep love for God. And a person, who loves God, truly is a person who knows what love is and why everyone on this Earth should be loved and treated justly, for the sake of Allah SWT.

6. Fasting elevates the human spirit and increases our awareness of God. It strengthens our will-power as we learn to rise above our lower desires. The institution of fasting is both unique and a shared experience in human history. From the very beginning of time, humans have struggled to master their physical and psychological selves: their bodies and their emotions. Hunger is one the most powerful urges that we experience. Many, through over- or under-eating or consumption of unhealthy foods, abuse this urge. Thus, when a person purposefully denies something to their own self that it craves, they are elevating their mind above their body, and their reason and will above their carnal passions. "A fasting person empties his stomach of all the material things: to fill his soul with peace and blessings, to fill his heart with love and sympathy, to fill his spirit with piety and Faith, to fill his mind with wisdom and resolution," says H. Abdalati in Islam in Focus. The person who can rule their desires and make them work, as they like, has attained true moral excellence.

7. With the clarity of mind and absence of distractions, also comes a greater focus. As students, the period of fasting, especially early during the day, serves as a tool to focus our minds on our academics. In the month of Ramadan, many Muslims try to avoid watching TV, listening to music, and some other leisure activities, which spares
them more time and energy to be spent on more productive activities such as academics, intense study of Islam, voluntary prayers, social and humanitarian causes, and a quality time with the family, to name a few. It is a reminder of our duty to God, our purpose and higher values in life, as God Himself describes the purpose of fasting as follows, "O you who Believe! Fasting has been prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, so that you may develop consciousness of God" (Quran 2:183).

8. Fasting has numerous, scientifically proven, benefits for our physical health and mental well-being. The time, length and nature of the Islamic Fast all contribute to its overall positive effect. One of the medical benefits is a much-needed rest to the digestive
system. The reduced food intake during the day allows the body to concentrate on getting rid of harmful dietary toxins accumulated as natural by-products of food digestion throughout the year. The length of the Islamic Fast itself (around 12-14 hours) is in sync with the 'transit time' of food from the mouth to the colon of the large intestine, ensuring that no stimulus reaches the stomach or digestive system while it remains in homeostasis. Therefore, for the vast majority of healthy individuals fasting poses no medical risks but in fact provides many health benefits, such as: an increase in serum Magnesium, essential for cardio-vascular health and prevention of heart complications; improvement in the quality and depth of sleep; improvement in memory and slower skin aging over time; increased production of growth hormone, etc. Also, as a general note, it has been observed that underfed animals live longer than their heavily fed counterparts and suffer fewer illnesses during their lives.

9. The month of Ramadan provides us with a sort of "Boot camp." It is a month of intense moral training. Since we know that Fasting is a special duty prescribed by God, we learn that any sins may spoil our record of fasting with God, so we go through great lengths making sure we are on our best behavior. Many people who experience fasting in this month, feel the impact that this intense training has on their habits, and realize the power of this transformative tool designed to make us better human beings- the ultimate goal of any spiritual exercise. The entire Ramadan atmosphere provides the driving force for this positive change.

10. It makes us realize the reality of life and death. Fasting makes us realize how dependant our lives are on things that we often take for granted, such as food and water. It makes us think about our dependence on God and God's mercy and justice. Moreover, it reminds us of the life after death, which itself has a great impact on our character and our world-view.

11. Ramadan is a blessed month for a special reason: It is actually the month in which God first revealed His final message and guidance for mankind to our beloved Prophet Muhammad. This message has been perfectly preserved both orally and textually in the form of a Book, called the Qur'an (The Reading/Recital) . Therefore, Muslims try to do an intense study of the Quran in this month especially, and evaluate their lives according to the standards and guidance contained in it.

12. After the month of Ramadan is over, Muslims celebrate one of the two most important holidays in the Islamic year: EID-UL-FITR, or the Festival of the Fast Breaking. It is a day to thank God for the blessing and training that He provides us with throughout the month of Ramadan. EID-UL-FITR is marked by praying in a huge congregation at an Islamic center or mosque, and by giving a small donation to the poor in the community. The adults give the donation on behalf of their children as well. Dinner parties, family outings, fairs, carnivals, and great joyous celebrations follow the prayer and charity.

Farewell Khutbah for the Last Friday of Ramadan - Br Anas

Asalamu alaikum wa rahmatullahi wa barakathuhu,

Al Hamdu Lillaahi Rabbil 'Aalameen was Salaatu
was Salaamu 'alaa Ashrafil Anbiyaa'e wal Mursaleen

All Praise is due to Almighty Allah, the Bounteous King; He is the
Mighty, Omnipotent, Gracious and Obliging, Who reveals Himself
everyday in a different state. I always praise Him, and am thankful
to Him secretly and openly. I bear witness that no one is worthy of
worship but Almighty Allah Subhanahu Wata'ala.

He is One and has no partner. This is the testimony which I sincerely
believe with my heart and tongue. I also bear witness that our
Spiritual Chief, our Apostle, and our Friend Nabee Muhammad
Sallallahoo Alayhi Wasallam is the Servant and True Messenger, whom
Almighty Allah sent with True Guidance and explanation (of Truth).

Let us reflect and ponder upon who we are, and the great blessings
that have been bestowed upon us. What lessons have we learnt from
this Most Holy and Auspicious Mubarak Month? Yes my most beloved
brothers and sisters! It is an open secret that we have accepted this
bond as something inevitable through our submission to the Din of Al
Islam. Differences, disputes, and even tensions, may cast a pall on
this fact, but Alhumdolillah, they can always be washed away by
recourse to wisdom, reason and forbearance.

Let us therefore view the conclusion of this most glorious month of
Love and Sabir in such a spirit so as to be able to draw the benefits
from it for our own selves and that of the great Islamic Ummah. Islam
is the religion of humanity, Islam is the religion of moderation,
wisdom, and submission to Almighty Allah Jallah Wa'ala, and without
doubt all religions have been such before being subject to
distortion. Islam presented to humanity the remedies of human
afflictions and sufferings, remedies which were free from any form
of extravagance, excess or neglect, and which were appealing and
acceptable to reason. Despite what the avowed enemies of Islam have
to say, Islam did it in the past and will continue to do so till the
Last Day.

Alhumdolillah! Islam has been and continues to be the Only True Path
leading to a new world and holding out the promise of a life of
Muhabbat, understanding, felicity, morality and salvation to mankind.
Islam invited humanity toward the remembrance of Almighty Rabbul
Ala'meen Exalted, humility, and an inner relationship with the Most
Glorious Creator and Sustainer. It taught man and exhorted him to
combat evil, aggression and corruption and to a constant struggle
against egotism, selfishness, the accumulation of material wealth,
and the pursuit of carnal desires.

O People who are present here! The Most Glorious Month of Ramadan is
coming to an end; where are the eyes that will weep and where are the
hearts that will humble themselves by the fear of Almighty Allah, the
Bounteous King? You have heard this so many times from the Holy
Qur'an: "All the creatures will certainly die." The time of the
departure of the month of Ramadan is very near and with you it will
stay just like a night-guest, or like a departing beloved. Never
forget that the separation of good friends is a very bitter thing; so
where are those who will perform as many good deeds in this month?
Undoubtedly those who have fasted, have collected great benefits and
the transgressors are the losers.

Bid farewell to this month with sighs, cries and constant weeping
when you say:

"Salaam to you, O month of Revelation: Salaam to you O Month of
Forgiveness (of Allah) and release from Jahannum! Salaam to you O
Month of the Illumination of Hearts! Salaam to you, O Month of
compensation of past sins! Salaam to you, O Sacred month, wherein
lies a night which is better than a thousand months!

Salaam, Salaam, O Month of Ramadan! Salaam to you, O Month of
Ramadan! Salaam to you, O Sacred month, whose nights are blessed by
Almighty Allah Subhanahu Wata'ala, and are a means of one's past
sins! Salaam to you, O Month of Virtue and Blessings of Almighty
Allah: Salaam to you, O Month of Charity and of fasting! Salaam to
you, O Month of Ibadah, Tarawee and remembrance of Allah!
Salaam to you, O Month of Takbir and glorification of Allah!

Salaam to you, O Honourable Visitor, whom we have welcomed
(enthusiastically) . O Traveller, we bid you an honourable farewell.
Salaam, Salaam, O Month of Ramadan! Blessed are you O Month of
Ramadan. O Month of Ramadan! We do not know whether you will be a
witness for us, or against us (on the Day of Judgement).

This is your last interview with us; we do not know whether you will
return to us (in our lifetime) or whether death will overpower us. O
Month of Ramadan! How fortunate is the person, to whom you will
return with blessings of Almighty Allah, and how fortunate is the
one, against whose misdeeds you will be a witness (on the Day of
Judgement!).

May Almighty Allah Rabbul Ala'meen bless our Masaajids' with your
presence for a long time, and may He light our lamps with your divine
light. The performance of Taraweeh is coming to an end, and our lamps
are going to be put off (by your departure). No one will wait for
Iftaar, and no one will see the stars for his or her Suhuur. For a
time our bellies were under your command, and our eyes were
kept awake in constant Ibadah. Undoubtedly, we are for Almighty
Allah, and to Him we will all return! Oh! How sad will be your
departure and separation from us. The day of your departure will be
sorrowful for all of us. O Most Holy Month of Almighty Allah! We bid
you our Salaam.

May Almighty Allah Most Merciful take mercy on the person who bid
farewell to Ramadan with repentance and devotion. All of you should
say: "O Almighty Allah!

Let us be among those who have attained salvation during the Holy
month of Ramadan. Deliver us from the fire of Jahannum, by the honour
of Ramadan. Pardon us with Your Mercy, O Most Merciful of those who
show Mercy. And all praise is due to Almighty Allah, the Lord of all
the worlds. I seek refuge in Almighty Allah, from Shaytaan the
rejected one. (Says Almighty Allah in the Holy Qur'an)!

"The pious will reside in an abode of Peace, in Jannah (with)
fountains; they will be dressed in brocade and silk, as they sit
before each other.

"Subahana Rabieka Rabiel Iezzatie Amma Yaseefoon Wasalamoon Alal
Moersaleem Wal Hamdoelillahi Rabbiel Ala'meen Bierahmatika Ya
Arahammar Raheemeen."

Ameen Ya Rabbal Ala'meen.

Baarak Allaahu Feekum wa-sal Allaahu wa-Sallam 'alaa Nabiyyina
Muhammad Sallallahoo Alayhi Wasallam.

Was Salamualaykum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuhu

The Fasting Person has Two Occasions for Joy

By Sheikh Riyâd al-Musaymîrî

Abû Hurayrah relates that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “Allah says: ‘Every deed of the child of Adam is for himself, except for fasting. It is for Me and I shall reward it.’ Fasting is a shield, so if it is a day of fasting for any one of you, then he should engage in no obscenity or shouting. If anyone belittles him or fights with him, he should just say ‘I am a person who is fasting’. I swear by Him in whose hand is Muhammad’s soul, the smell of the fasting person’s breath is sweeter to Allah on the Day of Judgment than that of musk. The fasting person has two occasions for joy, one when he breaks his fast because of his breaking it and the other when he meets his Lord because of the reward for his fast.”

[Sahîh al-Bukhârî (7492) and Sahîh Muslim (1151) with the wording being that of Muslim]

The Prophet (peace be upon him) says in this hadith: “The fasting person has two occasions for joy…” This does not mean that the fasting person experiences no other joys aside from these two. It is just that these two particular occasions of joy are exclusive to a fasting person and are experienced by no one else.

The fasting person experiences the first occasion of joy when he eats and drinks after a full day of self-restraint, patience, and obedience seeking Allah’s reward.

He experiences the second occasion of joy when he meets his Lord after a full lifetime of fasting and seeking Allah’s reward every time the month of Ramadan called upon him as an honored guest.

The first of these two joys comes every night in Ramadan when the Sun sets and the fasting person stretches out his hand to eat a sweet date or take a sip of cool, refreshing water to relieve his hunger and thirst.

And why should he not feel joy at this moment? He had expended every effort throughout the day only for his Lord’s pleasure and forbade himself his share of food and drink, seeking Allah’s eternal and everlasting reward.

It is the joy of having control over the demands of one’s own body and ascendancy over the everyday habits of life. It is, in this way, a spiritual joy, an exuberance that comes with the appearance of every Ramadan and with the exercise of goodly patience.

The happiness of a fasting person when he breaks his fast is not merely because he assuages his hunger and thirst, for even the lowliest of animals share in such pleasures. Instead, it is the joy of triumph over Satan and over one’s own passions and basest desires.

It is also the joy of having successfully carried out the command of our Lord. When He asked us to abandon our food, we abandoned it. When He called upon us to abstain from quenching our thirsts, we abstained from it.

We had hearkened to Allah’s words: “The month of Ramadan in which the Qur’ân was revealed as a guidance for humanity, clear proofs of guidance, and a criterion. So whoever among you witnesses the month, let him fast it.” [Sûrah al-Baqarah: 185]

As for the second occasion of joy, it is an experience like no other, reminiscent of the joy felt when meeting someone who is most beloved. It is the meeting of the fasting person with his Lord who had helped him to carry out his fast and had blessed him with success in doing so, and who had promised him for his fast the best of rewards that He has kept in store for him.

This is an experience of joy by which all the pains and sorrows of life are forever forgotten. It is an overwhelming joy. On that day, the person who had fasted during his worldly life will be entitled to rejoice in it. However, this will be the case only as long as he had restrained his hands from sinful deeds and his tongue from evil words and thereby safeguarded his fasts from becoming bereft of blessings.

Those who are barred from the blessings of their fasts are indeed doubly deprived. Their fasts deprived them of their food and drink, and then their conduct deprived them of the blessings and rewards. This is because they had violated the sanctity of the month of Ramadan with the ignominy of their words and the wickedness of their deeds.

Therefore, every fasting person needs to be aware of what the fast really means. He needs to fully appreciate its great and noble purposes. He must prepare himself mentally to safeguard his fast from every evil word and deed, so he can be sure to experience both of the joys that are unique to the fast. He should, likewise, let all the goodness that Allah has prepared for those who fast with sincerity be a means for him to restrain his eyes from casting their gaze upon that which is unlawful.

If, instead, a person opts not to lower his gaze from the foul images on the television screen and the forbidden sights of the street; if he chooses to indulge his ears in listening to provocative music and indecent songs; if, above all that, he allows his tongue to speak falsely and injuriously, then he should know that the only pleasure he shall experience when he breaks his fast is that felt by the cattle when they are set out to pasture or by the lion when it catches its prey.

Of joy, he will have nothing else.

The Three Grades of Fasting

From Inner Dimensions of Islamic Worship by Imam Abu Hamid al-Ghazali

Translated from the Ihya' by Mukhtar Holland

Three Grades

It should be known that there are three grades of Fasting: ordinary, special and extra-special.

Ordinary Fasting means abstaining from food, drink and sexual satisfaction.

Special Fasting means keeping one's ears, eyes, tongue, hands and feet -- and all other organs -- free from sin.

Extra-special Fasting means fasting of the heart from unworthy concerns and worldly thoughts, in total disregard of everything but God, Great and Glorious is He. This kind of Fast is broken by thinking of worldly matters, except for those conducive to religious ends, since these constitute provision for the Hereafter and are not of this lower world. Those versed in the spiritual life of the heart have even said that a sin is recorded against one who concerns himself all day with arrangements for breaking his Fast. Such anxiety stems from lack of trust in the bounty of God, Great and Glorious is He, and from lack of certain faith in His promised sustenance.

To this third degree belong the Prophets, the true awliya and the intimates of God. It does not lend itself to detailed examination in words, as its true nature is better revealed in action. It consists in utmost dedication to God, Great and Glorious is He, to the neglect of everything other than God, Exalted is He. It is bound up with the significance of His words: 'Say: "Allah (sent it down)": then leave them to play in their vain discussions.' [al-An'am,6:91].

Reflecting on Our Roles in Ramadan

RAMADAN is the time of year in which we engage in a month-long process of introspection, repentance, and self-renewal. It is not only a time when we are to increase our commitment to performing various acts of worship such as fasting and prayer, but it should also be a time for reevaluating all aspects of our lives. As Muslims men, this process should include room for assessing our performance as both husbands and fathers.

For most people around the world, these are indeed strange and trying times. For Muslims, not much else needs to be said along these lines. Perhaps it is only knowing that this world is the realm of testing and that in one way or another in our lifetimes we will all be tested, that allows us to get up every day and face the outside world. For many family men, however, rigor and severity are not a reality only on the outside, but inside the home as well. For such individuals and their families, the abode of peace that the home is supposed to be is anything but that and many such families are living quiet lives of sadness, desperation, and rancor due to family relationships that are simply not working. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) in a very well-known Hadith was recorded as saying that marriage was equal to half of the deen [of Islam]. This profound statement by our master has spurred volumes of scholarly commentary over the centuries and from a layman s perspective, the Hadith is monumental in its meaning and importance for those who have embraced the way of marriage and family. Only through deep reflection on our lives as husbands and fathers can we begin to understand the essence of the Messenger s (peace be upon him) words and why marriage is awarded the weight of half of our faith as Muslims.

The life partnership and commitment that marriage entail should be approached as a spiritual undertaking that can be an important facilitator of individual spiritual development. Just as we are essentially spiritual beings in a human existence, marriage is a journey that if approached as such can be a rich source of learning and personal development for both spouses. As Muslim men, much of what we are taught about family life pertains to our roles and responsibilities as husbands, i.e. the X s and O s of marriage and family life.However, too often the spirit of marriage is ignored or missed. Too often, in the course of trying to manage our families, we completely overlook the nuances that make marriage and family so important a human experience. Often we overlook the patience, sacrifice, compromise, love, understanding, humility, strength, and so many other inputs that are needed to be a good husband and father.

These are the fruits of the dedication and hard work that go into family life that help us to develop into better and more universal human beings. Though certainly there is no magic formula for achieving a successful marriage and family life, selflessness, love, and service are a few key principles from the teachings of our tradition that, when applied, can have remarkable transformational qualities on our roles as husbands and fathers and subsequently, our families in general.

Giving without expectation of reward

One of the most important themes in the life of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is the notion of meeting the needs and fulfilling the rights of others without any expectation of reciprocity. It is well-known that the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) actively participated in household duties such as sewing, cooking, serving his guests and cleaning. The modern world often teaches us to expect reward for our work, time and efforts. Even as Muslims, it often seems as though we take these same expectations into our home lives. It is common to hear about Muslim husbands and fathers demanding to be treated like kings in their homes with their wives and children expected to act like servants rather than loved ones.

This phenomenon, despite going against the spirit of love and service that the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) brought to the world, has many negative effects on families. For one, the distant father syndrome prevents children from fulfilling their divine role as a source of love and inspiration to their parents. As is commonly understood from the famous Hadith that all children are born in a state of Islam. Our scholars have told us that the greater meaning of this Hadith is that children come into this world pure and it is only what they learn from their parents and societies ( i.e. the world) that turn them away from this pure state. This purity of heart means that they are essentially beacons of mercy and love, a reminder of the endless blessings of the All-Merciful.

However, the distant father, the one who would be king in his own home and God-knows-what outside of it, himself a product of rejection, is not open to this divine blessing sent in the form of his children. The child, in turn, learns rejection early on and internalizes it, eventually manifesting his frustration in a multitude of ways including acting out, rebelliousness, mental illness, oppression, or simply the inability to open up to others the feeling of separation that typically goes hand in hand with illnesses such as depression and severe anxiety.

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How to Seek Laylatul-Qadr

By Shaykh Muhammad Nasir-ud-Deen al-Albani

Adapted from "The Night Prayers: Qiyam & Tarawih from works by Muhammad Nasir ud-Deen al-Albani (and other scholars)"

Compiled by Muhammad al-Jibali

Laylat ul-Qadr is the most blessed night. A person who misses it has indeed missed a great amount of good. If a believing person is zealous to obey his Lord and increase the good deeds in his record, he should strive to encounter this night and to pass it in worship and obedience. If this is facilitated for him, all of his previous sins will be forgiven.

Praying Qiyaam

It is recommended to make a long Qiyaam prayer during the nights on which Laylat ul-Qadr could fall. This is indicated in many hadeeths, such as the following:

Abu Tharr (radhiallahu `anhu) relates:

"We fasted with Allah's Messenger (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) in Ramadaan. He did not lead us (in qiyaam) at all until there were seven (nights of Ramadaan) left. Then he stood with us (that night - in prayer) until one third of the night had passed. He did not pray with us on the sixth. On the fifth night, he prayed with us until half of the night had passed. So we said, 'Allah's Messenger! Wouldn't you pray with us the whole night?' He replied:

'Whoever stands in prayer with the imaam until he (the imaam) concludes the prayer, it is recorded for him that he prayed the whole night.'…" [Recorded by Ibn Abi Shaybah, Abu Dawud, at-Tirmithi (who authenticated it), an-Nasa'i, Ibn Majah, at-Tahawi (in Sharhu Ma`an il-Athar, Ibn Nasr, al-Faryabi, and al-Bayhaqi. Their isnad is authentic.]

[Point of benefit: Abu Dawud mentioned: "I heard Ahmad being asked, 'Do you like for a man to pray with the people or by himself during Ramadan?' He replied, 'Pray with the people' I also heard him say, 'I would prefer for one to pray (qiyaam) with the imaam and to pray witr with him as well, for the Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) said: "When a man prays with the imaam until he concludes, it is recorded that he prayed the rest of that night." [Masaa'il]

Abu Hurayrah (radhiallahu `anhu) narrated that the Messenger (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) said:

"Whoever stands (in qiyaam) in Laylat ul-Qadr [and it is facilitated for him] out of faith and expectation (of Allah's reward), will have all of his previous sins forgiven." [Al-Bukhari and Muslim; the addition "and it is facilitated for him" is recorded by Ahmad from the report of `Ubaadah Bin as-Samit; it means that he is permitted to be among the sincere worshippers during that blessed night.]

Making Supplications

It is also recommended to make extensive supplication on this night. `A'ishah (radhiallahu `anha) reported that she asked Allah's Messenger (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam), "O Messenger of Allah! If I knew which night is Laylat ul-Qadr, what should I say during it?" And he instructed her to say:

"Allahumma innaka `afuwwun tuh.ibbul `afwa fa`fu `annee - O Allah! You are forgiving, and you love forgiveness. So forgive me." [Recorded by Ahmad, Ibn Majah, and at-Tirmithi. Verified to be authentic by Al-Albani]

Abandoning Worldly Pleasures for the Sake of Worship

It is further recommended to spend more time in worship during the nights on which Laylat ul-Qadr is likely to be. This calls for abandoning many worldly pleasures in order to secure the time and thoughts solely for worshipping Allah. `A'ishah (radhiallahu `anha) reported:

"When the (last) ten started, the Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) would tighten his izaar (i.e. he stayed away from his wives in order to have more time for worship), spend the whole night awake (in prayer), and wake up his family." [Al-Bukhari and Muslim]

And she said:

"Allah's Messenger (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) used to exert more (in worship) on the last ten than on other nights." [Muslim]

The Excellence of Ramadan

Allah has enjoined observing Ramadan as a pillar of Islam, and performing in it night prayer (Qiyam, or Taraweeh) as supererogatory devotion for augmenting the rewards. Allah, the Exalted, revealed the first portion of the Qur'an in it. In it too the battle of Badr took place between the Muslims who were 300 and umpteen men, and the pagans who were about a 1000. The Muslims emerged victorious and killed seventy of the leaders of Quraish and captured another seventy as prisoners of war.The third occasion, Makkah was conquered by the Prophet (S) without fighting. He entered it victorious on Friday, the 20th of Ramadan in the year 8 of Hijrah.

RAMADAN - THE MONTH OF BLESSINGS

We are grateful to Allah for giving us the opportunity to enjoy another blessed month of Ramadan. It is indeed, the month of ibadah, divine bounty and blessing in which the reward of good deeds are multiplied greatly. Abu Hurairah, with whom Allah is pleased, reported that the Prophet, (s), said: "My Ummah is given five privileges in the month of Ramadan that no Ummah was given before:

* The khuloof of the mouth of a fasting person is sweeter in the estimation of Allah than the fragrance of musk.

* The angels keep praying to Allah to forgive them (i.e. those who are fasting), until they break their fast.

* Allah decorates Jannah every day saying to it, 'My pious slaves are about to be relieved of their burdens and sufferings and enter you'.

* Satans are chained in this month, so that they are not able to accomplish their evil

* The believers' sins are forgiven by the last night of Ramadan.

Someone asked the Messenger of Allah (S): Is it the night of Lailatul-Qadr'? He said: 'no. But the laborer is usually paid upon finishing his task.'

THE EXCELLENCE OF FASTING

Abu Hurairah reported that the Messenger of Allah (s) said: ""He who observes the month of Ramadan believing (it is fardh) and expecting (the reward for fasting), Allah forgives his past sins."

The rebellious Satans, according to the authentic hadeeth, are chained, during the month of Ramadan, and the gates of Jannah are opened, and the gate of Hell-Fire is closed. In the month of Ramadan, a caller announces: "O you who intends to do good, come forward, and you who intends to do evil, relinquish your evil deeds. The real bereft is the one whose sins did not wash away in Ramadan.

Abu Hurairah reported that the Messenger of Allah, (s) said that Allah said: "All the deeds of the son of Adam are for him, except fasting, it is for Me, and I will reward for it. And fasting is a means of protection (against Hell-Fire and committing sins). When one of you happens to be fasting, let him avoid sexual relation with his wife and quarrelling. If someone fights or quarrels with him, let him say, 'I am fasting.' By the One in Whose hand is my life, the odor of the mouth of the person who is fasting is sweeter in estimation of Allah than the odor of musk. The fasting person has two occasions in which he rejoices: When he break his fast, he rejoices, and when he meets his Rubb, he rejoices for having observed fast."

The Qur'an will intercede with Allah on the Day of Resurrection on behalf of the person who reads it and applies it, and so will fasting on behalf of the person who observes it. Abdullah bin Umar reported that the Prophet, may Allah exalt his mention, said: "Fasting and Qur'an will intercede on behalf of the slave on the Day of resurrection. Fasting will say to Allah, 'My Rubb, I deprived him from eating and curtailed his desires, so permit me to intercede for him. And the Qur'a will say: 'I deprived him from his sleep, so permit me to intercede for him.' The Prophet, may Allah exalt his mention, said: 'Both will be given the permission to intercede on behalf of that that person."

Fasting is a pillar of Islam. It is obligatory which is known by necessity as an integral part of Islam. Whoever denies it as a pillar of Islam apostatizes, and should not be buried in a Muslim graveyard.

Once a trustworthy Muslim sights the new moon of Ramadan, it becomes incumbent on everyone to begin fasting. If the new moon of Ramadan was obscured, then the previous month of Sha'ban must be completed as thirty days, according to the instruction of the Messenger of Allah, may Allah exalt his mention.

Ramadhan - The Holy Month

The holy month of Ramadan unites all Muslims in fasting, feasting, worship and prayer. It is a time for contemplation, spirituality and brotherhood. It is also known and recognised as the month of the Qur'an Allah swt says:

“The month of Ramadan in which was revealed the Qur'an, a guidance for mankind and clear proofs for the guidance and the criterion (between right and wrong).” (Al-Baqarah 2:185)

"O you who believe! Observing As-Sawm (the fasting) is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, that you may become Al-Muttaqoon (the pious)” (Al-Baqarah 2:183)

May this Ramadan be one we benefit fully from and whereby we increase in emaan and taqwa, ameen.

May our acts of worship multiply abundantly ameen. May we increase in righteous actions, and do good deeds sincerely for Allah Alone, ameen.

May our character become beautified, may our hearts become connected upon this haqq and we fulfill each others rights with happiness, ameen.

May we be saved from the punishment of the fire, and enter Paradise, ameen. May Allah forgive us of our sins and have mercy on us all, ameen.

Please also remember to make Dua for all our Muslim brothers and sisters facing difficulty around the world. Iftaar time is the best time for your Duas to be accepted. Don't count how many different savouries & cakes are on the table, but count your blessings for all the favours Allah Ta'ala has given you and think how the destitute are struggling around the world tonight and every night.